The Problem & Need

A Hidden Crisis

Every year, millions of cats and dogs are euthanized in the U.S. — not because they can’t be saved, but because families or shelters can’t afford their care. Nearly 70% of these deaths are due to Economic Euthanasia (EE) — where life-or-death decisions come down to money.

What Is Economic Euthanasia?

  • Institutional EE – when shelters and rescues must euthanize due to limited resources.

  • Individual EE – when pet guardians are forced to choose euthanasia because treatment costs are out of reach.

Why It Matters
At Treasured Pets, we ask: Would we ever accept ending a human family member’s life simply because of money? The same compassion should extend to our animal family members.

The Numbers That Tell the Story

  • 65.1M U.S. households have dogs, and 46.5M have cats.

  • 56% of dogs and 71% of cats entering U.S. shelters are euthanized.

  • In Canada, rates are far lower: 19% of dogs, 40% of cats.

  • In Florida alone, 357,418 animals entered shelters in 2021 — with cat euthanasia rising for the first time in nearly a decade.

You Can Help
Together, we can end economic euthanasia. Your support saves lives today.